VILLAGERS had a Dickens of a good time as they soaked up the sights and sounds of a Victorian Christmas during a mammoth festive street fair with a Victorian theme.

Whalley was transported to the 19th century for the annual Pickwick Night.

Brass bands, steam organs, fire-eaters, jugglers and school choirs were all part of the line-up.

The event was officially started at 6pm when Blackburn Rovers player Simon Grayson switched on the Christmas lights.

Shops stayed open until 9pm, and staff donned Victorian-style dress as they sold Yuletide gifts.

Prizes were given for the best period outfit, best-dressed window and, for children, best Victorian nursery rhyme costume.

The event was sponsored by Atherton's Estate Agents, Whalley Abbey and the Marsden Building Society.

The aim of the event is to raise thousands of pounds for local charities.

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